US Presidential Race Changes Middle East Calculus
As American presidential campaigning intensifies, we are seeing a convergence between the candidates and the Bush administration on the issues of Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan.
Pakistan Taliban, Al-Qaeda Problems Worsen
Al Qaeda and the Taliban have carved out Pakistani havens for themselves near the Afghan border and continue to gain political and military strength.
Cuba, Missile Defense, and Cold War Redux
In a move aimed at spiting Washington for its planned missile defense system in Central Europe, Russia has announced it will boost bilateral cooperation with Cuba.
Pakistan’s Musharraf in Crisis
Impeachment proceedings against Pervez Musharraf are gaining momentum. Once he is replaced, however, the parliamentary infighting will continue as a new power structure coalesces. In the meantime, Pakistan lists as its economy implodes and lawlessness spreads in the provinces.
Pakistan’s Murky Future
Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf’s decision to resign rather than face impeachment by parliament will have both domestic and international implications: a political power vacuum for a fractious Pakistan, and the loss of a once indispensible ally in the “war on terror” for the US.
The Bush Administration and the Global Arms Trade
With the “war on terror” entering its seventh year, the Bush administration is brokering dozens of foreign weapons deals in order to combat terrorism by re-arming Iraq and Afghanistan, containing North Korea and Iran, and cementing ties with onetime Russian allies.
US and Pakistan in Low-Level War
For the first time since the beginning of the ‘War on Terror’, American and Pakistani forces have exchanged fire.
Somalia: Truly at World’s End
The Straits of Malacca are losing their status as the world’s most dangerous waters in exchange for a stretch of water off one of the world’s most lawless failed states. The past week has witnessed what has become the most dramatic naval standoff since the Cuban Missile Crisis.
US-Iraq Security Pact Doubtful
The proposed US-Iraqi security pact, required to be in place by January 1, 2009, appears increasingly doubtful.
Israel’s New Prime Minister: Tzipi Livni
On Monday, Israel’s Foreign Minister, Tzipi Livni, won the leadership race of the Kadima Party, the ruling party in the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, following the resignation of the former leader ex-PM Ehud Olmert.